'Number One on the Call Sheet' Earns Praise for Celebrating Black Excellence in Hollywood

The Apple TV+ documentary highlights the achievements, challenges, and systemic barriers faced by Black actors and actresses while emphasizing the importance of safeguarding progress in representation.

• The two-part documentary explores the evolution of Black representation in Hollywood, starting with Sidney Poitier's groundbreaking career and extending to contemporary stars like Michael B. Jordan and Viola Davis.
• Directed by Reginald Hudlin and Shola Lynch, the episodes focus on Black male actors and Black actresses, respectively, blending historical and thematic storytelling.
• The film critiques systemic inequities, including the limited recognition for Black actresses, with Halle Berry still the only Black woman to win a Best Actress Oscar.
• Mentorship and community among Black talent are emphasized, with personal stories of encouragement and collaboration shared by stars like Laurence Fishburne and Whoopi Goldberg.
• Critics commend the documentary for its comprehensive approach and call to action, urging the industry to protect recent gains in representation and build a more inclusive future.

3 Articles

IndieWire HuffPost The Guardian